A double weather alert is in effect for St. Theresa Point, Manitoba, as a heat wave and wildfire smoke blanket the remote fly-in community. Environment Canada has issued both a heat warning and an air quality warning for the area, lasting through Wednesday, July 16, 2026.
Daytime temperatures are expected to reach 29 degrees Celsius, with humidex values making it feel like 31. Environment Canada says overnight lows will not drop below 16 degrees, offering little relief for those without air conditioning. The Environment Canada notice says the heat will continue through Wednesday.
At the same time, smoke from nearby wildfires is causing poor air quality and reduced visibility across the Island Lake region. Conditions are likely to improve Thursday when winds shift to come from the southwest, pushing the smoke away.
Health officials are asking residents to take precautions. Those most at risk from wildfire smoke include people 65 and older, pregnant individuals, infants and young children, anyone with chronic health issues, and outdoor workers. They should cut back or reschedule strenuous outdoor activities. When heat and smoke hit together, staying cool is the top priority. If you must go outside, a well-fitting N95 mask can help reduce exposure to fine smoke particles.
The warnings come as Manitoba deals with a record-breaking wildfire season. A provincewide state of emergency remains in place, with more than 1.75 million hectares burned so far this year—the worst in 30 years. St. Theresa Point First Nation, a fly-in Oji-Cree community of about 4,000 people on the southern shore of Island Lake, knows the threat well. In 2025, wildfires forced evacuations from several Island Lake communities, including St. Theresa Point.
Residents are urged to drink plenty of water, keep windows closed to keep out smoke, and check on vulnerable neighbours. For health advice, Manitobans can call Health Links–Info Santé at 204-788-8200 or toll-free 1-888-315-9257.
